The Basis of Religion

In the novel "Brave New World" civilized society lives in a world of science and


technology. Major changes have occurred during the future; Utopia now revolves a religion of


drugs and sex. God and the cross have been replaced by Ford and the symbol T, the founder of the


age of machines. Instead of Sunday church, members now attend solidarity services where


morals and tradition are not learned, but rather faith is taught in the belief of hallucinations


produced by a substance known as "soma." Soma has effectively replaced the belief in a higher


being by its elimination of problems and stress resulting in a lack of imagination , creativity, or "soul."


Yet religion can still be found in today's society because of man's continuing need for answers to


questions that cannot be solved by science or technology.


Religion can be regarded as the beliefs and patterns of behavior by which humans try to


deal with problems and stress that cannot be solved through practical applications of science or


technology. "Brave New World" deals with stress by its elimination of problems through the use of


soma. As shown in the novel, the people have been addicted to soma as to the point of rioting when


their supply is threatened. Their attitude can be related to religious fanatics who accomplish violent


actions in the right of their religion. Present day society turns to lesser forms of expression through


weekly attendance to their place of worship in hopes of a stress-free life.   To overcome these


limitations, society turns to the manipulation of supernatural beings and powers.


Consisting of various rituals, prayers, songs, dances, offerings, and sacrifices, people try


to manipulate supernatural beings to their advantage. Recipients of riches, power, and glory have


often praised their Savior. These beings may be Gods and Goddesses or even...